BHCC - Brighton & Hove Chamber of Commerce

City College Brighton and Hove is urging local construction firms to take on apprentices as there is currently a shortage of Brighton and Hove employers in this sector participating in the apprenticeship framework. Taking on an Apprentice can have a hugely positive impact on a business, and during a tough financial climate, it is a cost effective way for a business to invest in their work force.

Matthew Carver, Director of local electrical contractors Lucas Electrics, says:
"I think it's important to train kids properly in a hands-on way. Joe, the apprentice we’ve taken on, is learning really fast while he’ll also be picking up the theory side at College. In the first six months an apprentice will be shadowing you a lot but if you treat them well and train them well, at the end of the day they’ll be making money for you and it’s a good move for any business in the construction industry to take one on.”

Apprentice Joe Cole says:
“I went to a mainstream College to take A levels and it didn’t really work out for me. I just prefer doing practical stuff, its going really well and I enjoy learning, working and earning money at the same time.”

As an additional incentive, a new grant is currently available for businesses who take on an Apprentice aged 16-24 before the end of October 2010.

The grant, a sum of £1,500, is in addition to City College’s customer service, including a dedicated skills advisor who guides employers and apprentice through every stage of their training.

For more information on taking on apprentices, contact City College’s Apprenticeship Co-ordinator Krystle Holford on 01273 667788 x 303 or email KHO@ccb.ac.uk